Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61 Review

A Close Look at the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a crucial component of a professional’s kit. Designed by Safariland, this holster provides Level III retention, ensuring a firearm stays secure in even the most demanding situations. Its sleek design and Automatic Locking System (ALS) make it a top contender for law enforcement, military personnel, and serious firearm enthusiasts.

Years of relying on level II holsters had me constantly second-guessing the security of my sidearm. I needed something that provided both reliable retention and a smooth, fast draw, especially when working patrol and training scenarios. The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III seemed to be the answer, combining proven technology with a comfortable ride.

Out of the box, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The plain black finish gives it a professional, understated appearance, and the molded polymer felt incredibly durable. The UBL (Universal Belt Loop) was easy to attach to my duty belt, and the mid-ride height seemed perfect for both comfort and accessibility. It definitely appeared to be a step up in quality compared to my older level II setup.

I considered several other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Cop 3-Slot. However, I chose the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and durability. The ALS system also seemed more intuitive and reliable than the Serpa’s retention mechanism, and the UBL offered a more stable platform than the belt slots on the Galco.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a holster that offered true Level III retention without sacrificing speed, but I also knew that the proof would be in the performance. I was eager to put it through its paces on the range and in training scenarios to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I was able to get comfortable with the draw and re-holstering under pressure. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for getting acquainted with the holster.

The ALS system proved to be incredibly intuitive. Releasing the thumb lever became second nature after just a few repetitions, and the draw stroke was smooth and consistent. I initially struggled a bit with re-holstering quickly, but after a few practice reps, I mastered the technique of smoothly engaging the ALS. The mid-ride height of the UBL provided a comfortable and natural draw position, allowing me to acquire a solid grip on my Sig Sauer P226 every time.

There were no major issues during my first use, though I did notice that the holster felt a bit stiff initially. However, this was expected with a brand-new holster, and I anticipated that it would break in over time. Overall, my first impression was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use in various training environments, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III has proven to be an incredibly reliable piece of equipment. It has been subjected to rain, mud, and dusty conditions, and it has consistently performed without fail. The holster has also been used during several close-quarters combat training exercises, where it has been subjected to significant stress and impact.

After months of hard use, there are only minor signs of wear, mainly some scuff marks on the plain black finish. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, and the holster remains securely attached to my duty belt via the UBL. Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to keep it running smoothly.

In comparison to my previous Level II holster, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is a significant upgrade. The added level of retention provides peace of mind, and the UBL offers a much more stable and comfortable platform. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. It features Level III Retention providing a high level of security.

Here are the key specifications:

• Retention Level: Level III (with optional Sentry installed). This provides three points of retention to secure the firearm.
• Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System). This automatically secures the weapon upon holstering.
• Material: SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend. Provides superior durability and resistance to the elements.
• Finish: Plain Black. Offers a professional and understated appearance.
• Hand: Right Hand. Designed specifically for right-handed shooters.
• Weapon Compatibility: Sig Sauer P220, P226. Ensures a proper fit and secure retention.
• Mount: Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). Positions the holster for a comfortable mid-ride carry.
• Hood Guard: Standard. Helps prevent unauthorized access to the firearm.

These specifications are critical for a duty holster. Level III retention provides the highest level of security against unauthorized access, while the ALS system ensures a smooth and efficient draw. The Ride UBL and the Slim design make it so the gun can ride close to the body.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide secure retention of a sidearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw when needed.

The ALS system works flawlessly, automatically locking the weapon into place upon holstering and releasing smoothly with the thumb lever. The Level III retention provides an added layer of security, giving the user peace of mind in high-risk situations. The simple straight up draw makes for faster deployment.

While the holster is generally excellent, there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. However, with a few hours of practice, the draw becomes second nature. Overall, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III meets and exceeds expectations for a duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III features a slim, compact design that allows the weapon to ride close to the body. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the plain black finish gives it a professional appearance.

The UBL provides a comfortable mid-ride height, positioning the weapon for a natural and efficient draw stroke. The holster is user-friendly, and the ALS release is easy to operate with a bit of practice. The Hood Guard further reduces the chance of unauthorized access.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is built to last, and the SafariSeven™ Nylon Blend is highly resistant to wear and tear. This makes the holster ideal for the rigors of duty use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The durable construction ensures that the holster will provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III includes a Hood Guard as a standard accessory. An optional Sentry is available for even higher levels of retention.

While the holster itself has limited customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. This allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences. Accessories sold separately.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61?

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military personnel who require a high level of security and reliability. It’s also suitable for competition shooters who prefer a Level III holster for added safety.

This holster might be overkill for casual shooters who primarily use their firearms for recreational purposes. Someone who prioritizes concealment over retention might be better served by a low-profile IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster.

A must-have accessory is a compatible tactical light, such as a Streamlight TLR-1 or SureFire X300. A good quality duty belt is also essential for a comfortable and secure carry.

Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61

The Safariland 6360 ALS Level III w/ Ride UBL Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6360-77-61 is an excellent duty holster that offers a compelling combination of security, reliability, and performance. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a high level of retention without sacrificing speed and comfort.

The price is justified by the quality of construction, the effectiveness of the ALS system, and the added level of security provided by Level III retention. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who relies on a firearm for their profession or personal safety.

If you’re looking for a duty holster that you can trust your life with, the Safariland 6360 ALS Level III is the one to get. Don’t settle for anything less. Secure your sidearm. Secure your peace of mind.